Rideshare services like Uber have become a convenient way to travel. But what happens if you’re a passenger in one of these vehicles and an accident occurs? Rideshare personal injury claims can be more complex than standard car accidents, involving multiple insurance policies and liability questions. 

If you’ve been injured as a rideshare passenger in North Carolina, knowing your rights and taking the proper steps can help you get the compensation you deserve.

Who Is Responsible for Your Injuries?

As a rideshare passenger, you are rarely, if ever, at fault for an accident. However, determining who is liable can be complicated. Depending on the circumstances, responsibility may fall on:

• The Uber driver (if they caused the accident)
• Another driver (if a third-party vehicle was at fault)
• Both drivers (if multiple parties contributed to the crash)

North Carolina follows a fault-based system, meaning the at-fault driver’s insurance should cover your medical expenses and damages. However, Uber both provides up to $1 million in liability coverage when a passenger is in the vehicle. If the at-fault driver’s policy is insufficient, the rideshare company’s insurance may apply.

If the Uber driver was at-fault in the accident, Uber offers certain amounts of liability coverage depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident:

• If an accident occurred while the Uber driver was waiting for a ride request, Uber offers coverage of up to $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident. They also offer coverage of $25,000 in property damage.
• If the Uber driver was on their way to pick up a passenger, or if they already had a passenger in their car (including you), Uber’s liability coverage increases to $1,000,000 plus certain other benefits.

Knowing where liability falls can be tricky, so it’s always wise to consult with a personal injury attorney who can guide you.

Steps to Take After an Uber or Lyft Accident

To protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation, follow these steps immediately after a rideshare accident:

• Seek medical attention: Even if you don’t feel injured, some injuries can take hours or days to appear. A medical evaluation creates a record of your injuries.
• File a police report: A police report can serve as critical evidence for your claim. Be sure to request a copy.
• Document the scene: Take photos of the accident, your injuries, and the rideshare vehicle. Collect the driver’s information, including their name, insurance details, and rideshare company affiliation. If anyone saw the accident, get their contact information. Their statements could help support your claim.
• Report the accident to Uber: Use the rideshare company’s app or website to officially report the crash.
• Avoid speaking with insurance adjusters: The insurance companies involved may try to minimize your claim or shift blame. Avoid giving recorded statements without legal guidance.
• Consult a personal injury attorney: Rideshare accidents can involve complex insurance policies and legal hurdles. An experienced personal injury lawyer can protect your rights and fight for fair compensation.

Why You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer

Uber accidents often involve multiple insurance companies, each trying to reduce their liability. Without legal representation, you risk accepting a low settlement that may not cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A personal injury attorney can help:

• Investigate the accident and determine liability
• Handle communications with insurance companies
• Ensure you receive full compensation for your injuries
• Take your case to court if necessary

SeiferFlatow Can Help You Navigate Your Claim

If you’ve been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in North Carolina, you don’t have to handle the legal complexities alone. The personal injury attorneys at SeiferFlatow understand rideshare accident claims and are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your case.